I struggle with resistance to change. How can I stop being so resistant?

what does the bible say?

Scripture acknowledges that change is often painful and labor-intensive (Zechariah 13:9). However, change is also necessary to yield certain results. The Bible teaches that change is a natural part of believers’ sanctification process (2 Corinthians 3:18), in which our actions are aligned with our new identity (2 Corinthians 5:17). The old nature is cast off, sometimes uncomfortably or painfully. Aside from spiritual change, we often experience circumstantial changes as many heroes of the Bible did, from Joseph to Moses to Ruth to the apostles and others. When change comes unexpectedly, we should not be overwhelmed with fear for the future but instead ask God for wisdom in how to respond in a godly way (James 1:5). One foundational truth Scripture attests to is that God will never change (James 1:16-18); Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). We can rely on His Word, His promises, and His listening ear when we pray to Him (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). Even with difficult changes we would never have anticipated or desired, such as the death of a loved one or a medical diagnosis, we can trust that God is still working in our circumstances to fulfill His good purposes (Romans 8:28).

from the old testament

• Change can be God’s way of making us more like Him. His work has been described as that of a refiner’s fire (Zechariah 13:9).
• Many heroes throughout the Bible experienced significant changes in circumstances: Joseph went from being surrounded by family to being enslaved and then imprisoned in a foreign l and (Genesis 39:20). Moses went from Egyptian royalty to fleeing for his life to being called for God’s service (Exodus 2:15, 3:10). Ruth left her homel and and family to live among her former mother-in-law’s people (Ruth 1:16).

from the new testament

• We don’t have to enjoy the process of change, but we shouldn’t resist what God is working in our lives as His will is always the best for us (Romans 8:28).
• Change can be beautiful—in fact, it is a key process in a Christian life: “And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit” (2 Corinthians 3:18).
• Though change will always occur, our discomfort with it is universal. However, as Christians, we should desire the kind of change that makes us more Christ-like. As “new creations” in Christ, the old passes away (2 Corinthians 5:17).
• First Thessalonians 5:16-18 tells us to, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” The importance of prayer is amplified during times of difficult change.
• No matter what changes our lives bring, we can be assured that God is unchanging (James 1:16-18; see also Hebrews 13:8), eternally faithful, good, and loving.
• Becoming like Jesus requires that we change. Rather than resist, we can rest in His firm hands and allow Him to mold us into His image. In the midst of such change, we can ask God to give us wisdom (James 1:5).

implications for today

Change is inevitable in nearly every aspect of our lives—physically as we age, relationally with others, financially, emotionally, and even spiritually. How should Christians react to it? We should ask God for wisdom and strength to handle the changes we’re going through (James 1:5; Philippians 4:13). We should trust in Him to work all things—even painful change—for our good (Romans 8:28). Reading God’s Word, especially the book of Psalms helps during seasons of change. It reflects nearly every emotion a human being can experience. It shows us that we, too, can express all of our emotions to God, including our distaste for change. In fact, we are encouraged to do so through continual prayer to our Heavenly Father (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). As we see reflected in the Psalms, we can also remind ourselves of God’s faithful character and give Him thanks in all circumstances.

Recap

understand

• Change is difficult, but believers can rest in God’s unchanging nature and His promise to work all things for our ultimate good.
• Spiritual change is certain when one accepts Christ as Savior and is indwelt by the Holy Spirit.
• When going through change, we should trust God and pray for wisdom and guidance.

reflect

• What difficult changes have you encountered in your life, and how have you handled them?
• How have changes in your circumstances impacted your spiritual life?
• When have you resisted change, and why?

engage

• How can believers help each other through times of difficult change?
• How can believers use significant social changes as a springboard to share and reflect the gospel?
• How can we be less resistant to change and more dependent on God through seasons of change?